His Risk to Take

Line of Duty #2

by Tessa Bailey

Librarian's note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B00CK51JT4.

The greater the risk, the hotter the reward…

Homicide cop Troy Bennett had a reputation with the Chicago PD for being fearless and in control—until the night his daredevil partner is killed during a raid. From that moment on, he swears he’ll never again be responsible for the loss of a loved one. To escape his demons, Troy transfers to the NYPD, bringing him up close and personal with Ruby Elliott, a beautiful, street-savvy pool hustler.

Reckless and stubbornly independent, Ruby embodies everything Troy’s avoiding, but when she walks into the pub he’s at with his new coworkers and blows his carefully laid plans to hell, Troy knows he has to have her—risks be damned. But there’s a connection between Ruby’s shadowed past and a case Troy’s working involving a notorious Brooklyn felon, throwing her safety into jeopardy. Confronted with his biggest fear, will Troy push Ruby away to keep her safe or fight to keep her in his arms where she belongs?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Erotica, Romantic Suspense, Adult, Erotic Romance

124 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 13, 2013

About the author

New York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.

Reviews

[Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 you sir are no Derek Tyler stars

*Spoilers*



Maybe yummy lieutenant Derek Tyler ruined all the other men in this series for me. Maybe he is just too much to top!!! I don't know why, but this one just didn't did it for me. Insta-love stories are either hit or miss for me, and this one was a miss. It felt forced, and I didn't buy their relationship. No way does Troy hold a candle to the Lickable Derek! I expected one thing and got something else altogether. I feel a little let down!




Everything felt off to me. Troy our hero in this story felt like a generic knock off of Derek Tyler in every way. Every way!! The sex, and omg the dirty talk! The dirty talk which I am a huge fan of wasn't nearly as good and at times felt cheesy.




Ruby also fell flat for me. She was your typical misunderstood rebel girl, with the heart of gold under it all. Whatevs! Her angsty sass just wasn't doing it for me. Maybe the first book set the bar too high and I just need to



Because even Troy as a cop and the crime plot to the story felt force like it was suppose to be bad ass and dangerous especially with the save at the end, but it just felt like this to me



Now don't get me wrong the book wasn't bad. It was a okay read an all. I wasn't bored or anything . It just wasn't as good as the first one. I think it would have helped if it had been a little longer, and if we had a little more story line and character development. Oh well I am on to the next one and I hope it is better than this one!

http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 hustler stars!



After my second Tessa Bailey book, I have decided she's a new go to author for me when I’m looking for an easy, sexy romance. Listening to this second book in her Line of Duty series was just as good as the first. And it was even hotter. All because of one dirty talking cop… Troy Bennett.

Troy is new to NYPD. He was transferred from Chicago after his partner was killed in duty. Ruby Elliot is not the type of girl to date a cop. She’s spent most of her life hustling people in pool. Although she’s trying to live more in the straight and narrow, go to college etc, she’s still gotta eat and pay her bills so she does what she knows.

Troy and Ruby are opposites in so many ways, but you know what they say. Opposites attract. They both fight their feelings for one another for different reasons. As opposite as they are, they also have some very similar qualities. Both are extremely stubborn. Which makes for an interesting duo.

Now, back to the best part of the book. Troy and his filthy sexy mouth.

“I’m going to come on your panties. And the next time I see them, I’m going to rip them off with my fucking teeth. Is that clear?”

“Next time you bend over a table, I’m going to wrap all that hair around my fist and pull your head back. I want to watch your eyes glaze over when I fuck you into oblivion.”

“I’m going to put you on your knees, Ruby. You’re going to hate how much you love it.”

His Risk to Take is a book I would highly recommend when you’re in the mood for a sexy read with a dirty talking hero and a strong willed heroine. I really enjoyed it. It’s short, sweet, steamy, and the narration on the audio was good.

“It’s simple. You’re for me, Ruby.”

“I’m for you,” she breathed.”

[• Lisa • · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 DIRTY TALKIN' STARS



Wow this short, sexy story has hot written all over it, another Brazen book yet again has ticked my easy Romance buttons, here are my thoughts ...

What's it all about?
Police officer Troy Bennett has just relocated to New York from Chicago, hoping for a fresh start this man of law leaves a past of difficulties behind him and is looking to settle into a drama free lifestyle and doing what he does best; solving crime. Ruby is a pool hustler growing up has been no easy feat for this feisty and equally beautiful twenty something, she has been surrounded by gang life and petty crime all her life. When Troy and Ruby's lives collide they never realised the danger that their lust was driving them to, but when attraction turns to something more we find out if it was all worth it.



What did I like?
I like to call books like this 'fillers' the perfect in between book, you don't need too much brain power, just some time to sit back and enjoy an easy read. This book is outrageously hot, the hero has a dirty mouth that had me giggling and blushing in equal measure, he knows how to sweet talk and he loves to demand his own way between the sheets, ladies if you like a man in uniform you will be drooling over officer Troy Bennett. The sexual connection and chemistry is the main focus of the book and the author certainly delivers a dirty style romance that has enough sweet to give it the loved up feel that Romance lovers crave.

Why not five?
As much as I enjoyed this story it didn't blow my socks off, it delivered what I expected; an enjoyable couple of smutty hours of reading but it wasn't long enough for me to be fully invested in the story. Don't get me wrong it was enjoyable just not five star standard.

Final thoughts ...
Brazen books never fail to amuse me and happen to be my favourite in-between books to read, if you like a dirty talking hero and a heroine with backbone this may be your next favourite short but sexy novel, go grab it readers. Enjoy ... Kisses.

[Penelope ✘ that awkward girl that doesn't go here ✘ · Rating 4 out of 5]

FOUR STARS!



So, being the idiot that I am, I totally read this novella in the wrong order. I read it's sequel first, so being introduced to these characters when I'd already met them in the sequel felt kinda strange. But, that was totally on me and my rating doesn't reflect that strangeness.

Troy Bennett and Ruby Elliott first cross paths at a bar. There's an instant connection between the two when they lock eyes which continues to sizzle as he witnesses her do what she does best: hustle money from unsuspecting male pool players who underestimate her because she's a woman. The two share a heated and somewhat satisfying night together, but soon find that their attraction isn't the only connection between the two of them. Ruby's dangerous past forces Troy to make a decision: does he stay and risk Ruby's safety or does he walk away to keep her safe?

I enjoyed this quickie read. For me, I found this book far more satisfying than its sequel. I thought it definitely portrayed Ruby as a strong heroine who I definitely connected with, and it was endearing to see her express her feelings in her own, albeit unconventional, way. Troy was definitely a great character as well. I can never say no to a dirty talking man and he was scrumptiously dirty.

"I'm gonna come on your panties. And the next time I see them, I'm going to rip them off with my fucking teeth. Is that clear?"

So, why not five stars? I think the length worked against it. Whilst I completely understand that the action unfolds quickly in a novella, I found that the ending was executed too quickly to give justice to the situation. Had it been a slightly longer book, I think the crucial scenes in the end would have had a chance to develop more and subsequently would have had the effect of wrecking my feels. As it was, the suspense passed rather quickly before ending on a pleasant note. Despite this, I did still enjoy it and find it, overall, a recommended read.

Please be more intelligent than I and read this novella before its sequel Riskier Business. You can find my review for Riskier Business here.

[Sandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Next time you bend over a table, i'm going to wrap all that hair around my fist and pull your head back. I want to watch your eyes glaze over when i fuck you into oblivion."

Holy hell! Tessa Bailey has managed to write another HOT as the alabama sun book! And the male MC...






YUM!

His Risk to Take is the 2nd book in the Line of Duty series and is a companion novel to Protecting What's His, which means it can be read as a stand alone and is about a different couple - Troy and Ruby.

You already met Troy, so now meet the girl...

"So, blue eyes. Why don't you stop staring and buy me a drink? I don't want to dehydrate before you work up the nerve."

Ruby was definitely a sassy, independent and full of bad attitude protagonist that i really liked. She wasn't afraid of doing or saying anything she desired. Her lifestyle is unique, she plays pool for a living and sometimes that comes with danger. You don't get to see that a lot in books. So that was something new for me.






Troy is protective, casual, and nice outside the bedroom, but inside he's commanding, controlling and dominant to the max. And his dirty talking *swoon*!!!

"It's going to take me hours of fucking that tight little body of yours to satisfy it."

For those naughty readers who love naughty gifs -





I LOVED the 1st book but this one i only liked. It was too short, i felt like there was not enough description of the characters, and i didn't feel that chemistry between Ruby and Troy. Which is a shame because they were a pretty interesting and entertaining couple to read about.

I also found something lacking in it. Maybe it was the lack of humor that made book 1 so special for me? Maybe it was something else, i don't know. All i know is that (like i said before) the book was too short and it wasn't as good as i expected it to be.







That's the truth.

[Catarina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second book of Line of Duty tells us the story of Troy and Ruby.
Troy is a detective; Ruby is a pool hustler to pay the bills. (Yes, hustler, you’ve read it right!)
And after a very strange one-night-stand they can’t seem to stay away from each other, when Troy finds that she is in danger, he won’t stop at nothing to keep her safe.

First, Troy is a sexy-as-sin-alpha-male.



Ruby is also awesome.
The sexy steam and the sweet moments are all here, but I’ve got to say that althout I liked it a lot, I liked the first one better.
Nonetheless, these books are a must-read.
You can go now, people.

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, let's meet Troy Bennet!

Troy is a NYC Detective with controlling and possessive tendencies and a filthy, dirty-talkin' mouth.

But Prince Charming disappeared as soon as they made it to the bedroom.
He'd tried once or twice in the past to be the guy who whispered sweet nothings into a girl's ear when she came, but he'd never been able to keep up the facade. He'd rather be explaining in very explicit terms how and where he planned to take her next.

After reading and absolutely loving Protecting What's His, when I saw that Tessa Bailey plans to release a novella a few short months after, I was all over it!

Although I didn't find this to be as good as the first book, which I think is in part due to it being a short novella, I still really enjoyed it.

Troy is a detective, who after a tragic turn during a police raid in Chicago, is transferred to NYC.

Ruby Elliot

is a street-savvy pool hustler.

When the two meet at a bar, sparks fly and Troy is determined to get her beneath him.

Ruby was the sassy, smart-talking heroine that I have come to associate with Miss Bailey's writing. She doesn't take any shit from anyone, and gives Troy a run for his money.

When the bartender turned to make change, she spoke to Troy without looking directly at him. "So, blue eyes. Why don't you stop staring and buy me a drink? I don't want to dehydrate before you work up the nerve"

I loved Troy and his dirty-talking ways.

"You might get away with running that smart mouth to other people. But you won't get away with it here. If you continue to challenge me with every word out of your mouth, I will fuck you repeatedly until you learn to play nice."

This was a case of insta-lust, and given the fact that it's a novella, things progress pretty fast.

When the two of them finally get together...

"I've been ready for you since Saturday morning. It's going to take me hours of fucking that tight little body of yours to satisfy it. I hope you know what you're in for"
She looked up at him, bold and determined. "I'm here, aren't I?"
He growled, equally exhilarated and annoyed by the way she insisted on pushing him back. "I'm going to put you on your knees, Ruby. You're going to hate how much you love it."

Though I liked Troy, since I do love me a yummy possessive hero, I did find him to be a little bit over the top at times. It was nothing that bothered me too much, since I enjoyed the rest of the story. All in all, this was a hot and quick little read with a realistic HEA.

We also get to meet the hero of the next book, Troy's friend and coworker, Daniel, the hostage negotiator and chronic womanizer. (Yes, please!)

** ARC provided by Entangled via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review **

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit by Tessa Bailey! 5 blazing stars!

"So, blue eyes. Why don't you stop staring and buy me a drink? I don't want to dehydrate before you work up the nerve."
"Ask nicely, and I'll think about it."

Say hello to Ruby and Troy! They have blazing chemistry. This book is around 150 pages. It is not some deep story. But it is H.O.T and Pure Wonderful Escapism.



Troy is a cop who just transferred from Chicago to New York. He is out with his friends when Ruby walks in. She is a professional pool hustler and gets down to business. But as always, there is more to her than meets the eye. I loved them from their first encounter! It is definitely lust-at-first sight, but it worked.

"I just watched you bend over a pool table in those ridiculously tight jeans. Over. And over. You think I could stop at kissing?"
A shiver moved down her spine at the change in his tone. "What else did you have in mind?"
"Do you really want to know? Think very carefully before you decide."
She swallowed with difficulty. Interesting didn't begin to cover this man. "Tell me."

Troy. One minute he is a boyfriend, the next minute he is a dirty talking controlling sex god. Where do I sign up? I could gush about him all day long. He is hot and alpha and he is a Real Man.

"You might get away with running that smart mouth to other people. But you won't get away with it here. If you continue to challenge me with every word out of your mouth, I will fuck you repeatedly until you learn to play nice."

Troy is arrogant and sure of himself. He is a pure alpha male in the very best way. He never steps over the line. He is the perfect hero . And he is a tiny bit jealous.

"I'm the guy she spent Friday night with. And I'm the guy she's going to spend tonight with. So maybe the better question is, who the fuck is you?"

Even though this book is all about Troy, I also loved Ruby. I want to be her. She is strong, cool and collected. She falls hard for Troy but she never loses herself. They complement each other perfectly!

This book is like a delicious chocolate cake. It sweeps away all your problems and lets you escape into a wonderful place with wonderful people. It's the perfect escape on a rainy Sunday afternoon.

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Dirty Talking... Wall Slamming Stars...
* * * * Spoiler Free
I read this and for some reason, I cannot figure out why I didn't review it...Duh... Had everything I love.

I am here to alert you if you love hunky men... who say the naughtiest things...and then follow up on them... against the wall...Then get your clicker clicking... for gosh sake...

You're still here... Go on, get going and Click Click..

Protecting What's His (Line of Duty, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Protecting What's Theirs (Line of Duty, #1.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
His Risk to Take (Line of Duty #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Officer off Limits (Line of Duty #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Asking for Trouble (Line of Duty, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Staking His Claim (Line of Duty, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know you're being hustled when the heroine pulls a pool stick out of her yoga bag! And the good part about it is that you like it and that's exactly what hooked Troy.

Troy as in, hot, sexy, tortured police detective from Chicago, who's here in New York for a fresh start. While he seems very easy going, he gives you hints that he is a different beast in the bedroom.

Ruby always gets what she wants even if she has to hustle it. Something calls to her about Troy and she goes after him with no holds barred.



What I loved about this is that they both can read each other so well. Troy of course from being a cop and Ruby from being raised on the streets and being taught to hustle. They both don't miss a beat. They seem to be opposites but they are so much alike. It was almost like they saw a homing beacon in the other and couldn't stay away.

Doesn't hurt that the steamy scenes are off the charts. Nothing better than a dirty talker! And the more Troy turns on Ruby, the more he's turned on. Naturally, they fight it but not for long.



Wouldn't be a good story without some drama. Turns out one of the cops gets beat up and wouldn't you know it? The major person of interest is someone Ruby used to work for. Troy knows he needs to keep her away from him but that's easier said than done.

I thought the ending was really sweet and I loved what Troy did. Of course, the major problem is that the story was just too short...it had such potential!


Favorite quotes:

♥ I can’t turn off this need to protect you.”

♥ “Just so we’re clear, baby, that’s what I’m doing. Letting you divert my attention with your tempting body so you don’t have to answer my questions or explain where you went tonight. I’m aware of it. I’m the one who’s letting you get away with it.”

♥ “Look, we’re both stubborn hotheads, and we’re going to fight. Early and often. But I will never make it more than one block before I come back. That is my promise to you."

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two out of two for Tessa Bailey!!
For such a short story His Risk to Take packs a punch with great characters, who have a great banter and a steamy sizzling connection.
Troy a ex Chicago cop has moved towns after the death of his partner. He runs into Ruby as she is hustling some money out of someone in a pool game. He has an instant desire for this woman, but little does he know that she is closer to a case he is working than he knows. To close for comfort.

I really enjoyed every single moment of this book. The story although short, did not feel rushed at all. In fact my only complaint about this book would be that it was too short. I would have liked more time with these two characters as their steamy connection was burning up the pages before my eyes.
Tessa Bailey is quickly becoming an author that I will be keeping my eye on, she writes just the type of hero that I like to see in my romance books with female characters that I can relate to.
Keep the awesomeness coming Ms Bailey!!

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Troy, a hot, dirty talking detective




Ruby, a sexy pool hustler






These two together are so hot. Troy and his dirty mouth, yummy! All he wants to do is keep her out of trouble and safe. All she wants to do is help him to keep him safe. Can they figure it out and still be together? You will have to find out! Loved this book. It was a short, sexy read. Great job again Tessa Bailey!!

[♥Trish♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tessa Bailey has to be one of my favorite authors. She has this talent of pairing uber hot alpha males with equally strong females flawlessly. They don't seem to "fight" each other. they just work and work well together.

Ruby is a pool hustler, Troy a detective. Unfortunately, he is after one of Ruby's old acquaintances. He begs Ruby to trust him and to keep herself safe. You know us damn strong females can't do that....

This truly is a great love story with some serious alpha male action.
Don't miss it :)

I really hope Ms. Bailey does a book about Lenny's son.... read and I think you will agree. He could be one interesting character!!

[Olga therebelreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

In short:
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 4/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 4/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 1/5 | Humor 3/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Steady | Action 4/5

[lakshmi · Rating 2 out of 5]

aaaaaand I’m officially done with this series 🫶🏽🤡

So I managed 2 books and I’m done with the alpha male stuff. I thought it would’ve been fun? But it’s just boring for me and honestly not my style anymore.

A man who through around “ you’re mine” every chance he gets
A woman who doesn’t want to get attached
Sex as a form of therapy


i think I’m done with MF romances for a while. I’ve hit my limit 😂

“Now. We’re going to stay in this bed until I get tired of hearing you say you’re mine. It’s the only thing allowed out of your mouth for the next several hours. Is that clear?”
Eyes fluttering closed, she nodded. “Yes.”
He nipped her bottom lip. “Follow the rules.”
“I’m yours, Troy. I’m yours. Yours.”

[Jamie *Gypsy Smut-a-teer* · Rating 3 out of 5]

Troy

"As long as you're with me, I don't want some punk thinking he has the right to touch your gorgeous face. If you want to be touched, you tell me where, and I'll take care of it. I'm the only on who touches you now, Ruby. ME."

Troy has moved from Chicago to make a new start. He's only been in New York for a week when he goes out with two guys from the force for a drink. They are joking around about women, but he's still grieving the loss of his partner so he's sorta just sitting ignoring the guys when Ruby walks in. See he comes across as the good guy, but in reality in the bedroom he turns into a dirty talking, controlling man who knows exactly what he wants and how to take it. From the moment he lays eyes on her he wants her, but Ruby turns out to be quiet a surprise when she hustles some guys at a pool game. So, then he decides that not only does he want her, but he has to protect her too, it's just he doesn't know at this point how much.

Ruby

"You've heard that proverb, teach a man to fish and you'll feed him his entire life? Teaching me how to play pool was his way of feeding me for life."

Ruby has led a complicated life. She's sassy, independent and trying to break away and start her life the way she wants to live it instead of the way she was raised to live it. The problem is, it's taking a little bit of time to get to where she wants and hustling is still essential to be able to make it until she can quit all together. The minute she meets Troy she is intrigued by him. But once she discovers he's a cop she isn't sure how much she can trust him. But the pull between them is too strong to avoid which leads her into going home with him. She scoots out the next morning before he wakes up, but Troy doesn't give up that easy and hunts her back down. She has walls built to protect herself, but, eventually he breaks down all of her walls.



I can't get into that damn head of yours." Troy growled. "You're so determined to keep me out. But your body knows who it answers to. It answers to me, doesn't it? Le me in, Ruby. Let me in."

"I've let you in more than I've ever done before. With anyone." Ruby sobbed.

"It's not enough. I want it all. I need everything you have."

I liked this book, but I can't say that I liked it as much as I liked the first in this series. There's really not one specific thing I can point out for me not liking it, except maybe it felt to be shorter than the first, which led for it to seem more rushed. I totally get it that short stories are not going to elaborate on everything, but it just seemed to me this one was more rushed than the first and sometimes that just takes away from the story for me. However, the sex scenes were scorching hot, especially one part with a pool stick and table. OMG, that was sooo HOT!!! And Troy has a way with making Ruby give into his demands with the use of his dirty mouth and hot sex.



If your looking for something short for in between longer books this one is perfect. And I definitely recommend it if you have already started the series. I can't wait to see who's story is next, I'm thinking maybe Brent and seeing as the way he already is avoiding falling for someone I think it will be interesting. (btw, I found so many hot pool pics, but since all of the flagging lately I didn't put any of them, it's so disappointing. :()

[Vikki ~ *squee* lite ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yum. Fun, fast, hot. That's about a you need to know. Tessa Bailey delivers on what I now see as her signature dirty-talking alpha male meets spunky independent girl story. I enjoyed every word.

Despite the fact that this was a novella, it wasn't a totally surface story, you got to know a bit of backstory on both Ruby and Troy. I DO wish it had been a full length novel, (because who wouldn't want more of all that yumminess) but I didn't feel cheated or rushed.

I loved that you had no doubt that Ruby and Troy were together at the end of the story - and it didn't feel like a HFN ending - but no one threw out the "I love you" after only knowing each other for like two weeks. Refreshing.

**side note. I had to stalk the authors blog - and I was excited to see that the plan is for a whole series of books with novels coming out every 5-6 months and novellas in between. I cannot wait for our next book! (I'm still hoping for Ginger's sister from (Protecting what's his) to get her own book.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars ***Review completed on 05.23.2013



A cop and a pool hustler; what are the odds??? Apparently it doesn’t matter if they turn you on beyond reason.

“Next time you bend over a table, I’m going to wrap all that hair around my fist and pull your head back. I want to watch your eyes glaze over when I fuck you into oblivion.”

Troy needs a distraction and this petite little hustler will do the trick, but the more he’s around her, the more his protective instinct kick in. Ruby doesn’t sleep around, but something about Troy both tempts and scares her. She knows she should get away; nothing good can come out of a one night stand with a cop, especially with her past so close by.

“I’ve been impatient to fuck you for days. If you keep taunting me, I’ll have no choice but to assume you want it as rough and dirty as I can give it. And, baby?” He nipped her ear. “I saw the way your back arched and your thighs squeezed together when you heard my voice behind you. I know how bad you want it.”

Troy’s working a big case, one if successful will put a man behind bars for good, but no matter how busy he is, he can’t get Ruby out of his mind. He decides he wants more but doesn’t realize that just by being seen with her, will put her in more danger. He can’t risk her getting hurt, so he tries to back off, but Ruby’s stronger than he realizes and won’t be kept captive while he takes care of the bad guys.

“You’re so goddamn determined to keep me out. But your body knows who it answers to.”

His Risk to Take was a short read that I really wish was longer. It was fast paced and HOT. Troy’s mouth wasn’t as dirty as Derek’s, but it was enough to entice you. I was waiting for Derek to make an appearance but this was a standalone book in the series. Can’t wait for the next one, love their dirty mouths!

[~Stéphanie~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED



When reading this book, prepare for one hell of a ride! You can choose
- Have your boyfriend, husband, a man or a sextoy near you!
Or
- A cold shower
Because one thing is sure, Troy Benett won't leave you indifferent!!

It's my first book from Tessa Bailey and I didn't know her men were so sexy, controlling, demanding AND so in the dirty talk.

"Goddamit, you little tease. Stop licking at it and take it deep. Show me how much you missed me"

Those who knows me a little knows that they are my weakness.

So Tessa Bailey might be my new fav' author. Right after I finished this book I bought almost all of her books and I can't wait to find the time to dive in every one of them. Yep just for her dirty talkers.

I know all her series are connected but you can read her books as a stand-alone. This one you can for sure ;)

Troy Benett is a police detective newly arrived in New York. He had to leave Chicago because he feels too guilty over his partner's death. He soon meets Ruby Elliott, a pool hustler with a smart mouth.

"She's also beautiful, brave and loyal. And way too smart for her own good"

From the start they battle together but their attraction is stronger than what they expect. While Troy accepts it quickly, Ruby has some difficulties. She is no used to let a man control her life. She comes from a dark place and she sure doesn't want to be lead by some guy. Moreover Troy is a cop and she has been taught to think like a criminal, her father was one and even if she has left the business, habits died hard.

Due to the circumstances, they find themselves both in a situation that will bring Ruby back to see old acquaintances. Troy wants to protect her at all costs. There is no question that she takes risks but needless to say she is too suborn to listen.

"I can't get into that damn head of yours. You're so goddamn determined to keep me out. But your body knows who it answers to. It answers to me doesn't it?"

It's a small novella so it's easy and fast to read. This was my first cop story and it was very entertaining. You have a little angst about what will happen to both our MC because they are clearly in a situation where everything can happen.

They don't know who to trust but their attraction keeps them together. Troy's limits are tested and Ruby's heart is involved



Posted right after I finished reading
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Tessa Baily WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE? How come I didn't knew about your super alpha dirty talkers heroes!!?? I want MORE!!!


If you want more Troy and Ruby, you can read after His risk to take

[Mo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was about 30% into this when I realised that this was the same author who wrote Protecting What's His. I absolutely loved that book and knew I would be in for a treat with this one also. I was not mistaken. Loved it. Sassy heroine, tough hero. Hot sex, good banter between them. Hot sex – did I mention that – actually don’t think there was an over abundance of sex (sorry) but when it was there it was HOT. It is not part of a series which is great and can be read as a stand alone so get “one-clicking” and ENJOY!

TROY





What’s a Girl to do but hustle…





RUBY


Chicago to NEW YORK


HOT SEX – always good



Protecting What's HisProtecting What's His

[Lucinda - I JUST LOVE TO READ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 STARS

Ok it took me 2 days to read this book because LIFE just got in my way. But this is a VERY short book. But I loved it. I loved Troy and loved Ruby. (I'm sure I could have read this in a few hours)

Just wished it was a bit longer. Feel there was much more to be told.

Look forward to the third book coming out.

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This is out this is out whoop whoop http://www.amazon.com/His-Risk-to-Tak...

[Cami · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I saw someone else’s review that feels the same way I did about this…….Troy Bennett is definitely not Derek Tyler from the first book. Maybe because I read these back to back and Derek was so alpha perfect it made Troy seem a bit Ho Hum.

This was an okay read and I don’t regret reading it or anything, it was just kind of, meh. It seemed a little more like a novella since it was so short and there was no real character development.

I’m still going on to read the next one.

[Geri Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another scorching hot read from Tessa Bailey. Whew! This is one hot book. Steam rolled off the pages and never lets up until the very end. The chemistry between Troy and Ruby are off the charts. My only complain about this one is it was too short. I wanted more! :DD

[Vika aka ♔ of GIF & Grumpy Smut-ateer *P/T Freebie Fairy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why so short? Seriously?




A fast paced, hot, sexy read with headstrong pool hustler and a VERY bossy detective... Yum.. and YUM!

[DKristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give this one 3.5 stars. Troy was so hot. I liked their banter and again I say hottest scene with a pool stick. Ever. So this one definitely gets a thumbs up from me.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Troy Bennett is a homicide detective who just transferred jobs from Chicago PD to the New York PD. He needed a change after losing his partner in a raid that went terribly wrong. Feeling responsible and guilty for his partner’s death, he’s determined to never let someone he cares about get hurt or die on his watch again.

While hanging out in a bar one night with fellow NYPD officers celebrating his first week on the job, in walks a stunning woman who immediately captures his attention. Especially when the sexy woman walks up to the bar and boldly says, “So, blue eyes. Why don’t you stop staring and buy me a drink? I don’t want to dehydrate before you work up the nerve.” Bam. Hooked and lined. Troy was caught. He wanted her, even if he can tell from that very moment this woman is trouble with a capital T.

Ruby Elliot is a savvy pool hustler. Her father taught her everything there is to know about gambling and hustling. This unconventional and dangerous lifestyle is all she’s ever known, but now she’s trying to change her life by going to school. But, for now, she needs to hustle to pay for her schooling and bills - which is why she is in the bar that night. Working her magic, she whips some guys ass at a game of pool, who then becomes angry when he figures out he's just been hustled... by a girl. Luckily, Troy was there to step in before things got out of control.

Troy is a very sexy, strong, domineering hero knows what he wants and takes what he wants. He also knows he needs to stay away from the pain in the ass, sexy as hell woman that lives recklessly, who will break all his rules. But now that he’s become smitten with the bold beauty, he’s finding it hard to keep his distance.

And vice-versa. Ruby is highly attracted to this controlling, bossy man. Ruby is not used to letting anyone take care of her. She’s always done things on her terms, her own way. Until Ruby meets Troy - who took control in and out of the bedroom and she suddenly realizes how much she liked it. Ruby likes the feeling that Troy is there to take care of her and protect her. Ruby may come across as a tough chick, but there is more to this woman once the layers are revealed. She’s compassionate and protective and stubborn as hell.

Troy and Ruby aren’t cut from the same cloth. Ruby comes from the wrong side of the tracks. Troy is the law. But their attraction towards one another is strong and undeniable. And when they find out there is a connection between them with a case Troy is working on, getting involved with each other becomes a bigger risk than they both ever imagined. Where she’s willing to risk everything to protect him, he’s willing to keep her safe, even if it means losing her. These two opposites having such incredible chemistry from the moment they meet and find that sometimes it’s just worth taking the risk on someone you care about.

I’m a living, breathing female so, of course, I love a domineering and dirty talking man in the bedroom. And Troy, definitely dominates.

“You might get away with running that smart mouth to other people. But you won’t get away with it here. If you continue to challenge me with every word out of your mouth, I will fuck you repeatedly until you learn to play nice.”

Smoking. Hot. Who doesn’t love a dirty talking sexy alpha? This is one hot and spicy couple between the sheets. And because I have a dirty mind, I wouldn't have minded a scene with them using Troy’s cuffs. *wink*

This story isn't very long but it's jam packed with a lot of awesome. In His Risk to Take you gives you suspense, heat and steam, passion, angst, drama, and a wickedly sexy alpha hero. This story can be read as a stand-alone. Since I didn’t read the first book, I didn’t feel like missed anything. However, I do plan to read Protecting What’s His soon since I’ve heard great things about it. And I’m most definitely keeping my eye out for the next Line of Duty book. There is nothing better than a naughty, dirty talking, bossy cop!

Rating: B
Heat: Hot


-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review


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[Inna · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I enjoyed this book overall, however, I was frustrated by the number of sex scenes because I somehow didn’t realize that this was an erotica book while reading. Sex dominated a good chunk of this story… in a much more significant way than most books by TB that I’ve read thus far. The feeling of there being less story and more sex was definitely not helped by the shorter length. To be perfectly honest, I’m all for erotica in romance, but I need to be in the mood for it. I just grew bored with all of the sex because I wasn’t expecting it and wouldn’t have chosen an erotica book at this time. 🤡🤡 Whoops!

Anyways, this was still worth the read, and I especially liked the sweet HFN ending.

Completely Safe; no virgins, hero not a manwhore, no om/ow drama, no cheating, no sex scenes with OP.

[Cari Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored Protecting What's His and was lucky enough to get to read an early copy of His Risk to Take, which I enjoyed just as much. So. Freaking. Hot! Tessa Bailey's one of my new favorite authors and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

[Anja · Rating 3 out of 5]

[Tenley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been on a bit of a book slump. My schedule demands have shifted and with such little time for myself, I have been finding reading a chore. I'm often picking the wrong books and I just haven't been enjoying reading like I used to. As an attempt to find reading fun again, I searched Tessa Bailey's books, specifically her old stuff (which, is also her best stuff, in my opinion).

I had previously read three of the five books in the Line of Duty series. While I didn't love all of them, I knew I liked them and picking up another book in the series promised to give me me a solid enjoyable reading session that didn't require too much thinking or time (win, win, win).

His Risk to Take delivered on all accounts. Hot guy, hot girl, both likeable and not too deep or problematic. The story is fast paced, but doesn't feel rushed or stupid and the hot times are hot.

I can't write this review without addressing the elephant in the room. The elephant being a pool stick. There's a whole sex scene that involves a pool stick...... it's not anything horrific, so don't panic. The hero uses the stick as a sex prop on the heroine and he's all up around her lady bits for a considerable amount of time. This pool stick was found in a bar. It doesn't matter that the bar was closed or the place was clean. All I could think of when reading that scene was the number of germs on said stick and how many former patrons used it. 🤢🤢🤢 Why did the hero or heroine, for that matter, not consider how UNSANITARY that was?!?! Gross. Yuck. Gross.

Besides that, the story was fun!